Exploring Almost Forgotten Gravesites in the Great State of Ohio

Dedicated to cemetery preservation in the great state of Ohio


"A cemetery may be considered as abandoned when all or practically all of the bodies have been Removed therefrom and no bodies have been buried therein for a great many years, and the cemetery has been so long neglected as entirely to lose its identity as such, and is no longer known, recognized and respected by the public as a cemetery. 1953 OAG 2978."

Saturday, May 4, 2019

Taking a look at an example of a "Union Cemetery" by definition in the State of Ohio

This story is good to see posted online and shareable to others who may have an interest in this subject which rarely makes the news at all.  
by Olivia Minnier

This cemetery situation doesn't exist in great numbers in Ohio, but there are some that do fit into this category, and it is good to better understand what they are and the details that pertain just to them.  They are what is known as "union cemeteries." Or referred to as: "union cemetery district."

759.27 Union of municipal corporations and townships for cemetery purposes.
The legislative authorities of two or more municipal corporations, or of one or more municipal corporations and the boards of township trustees of one or more townships, when conveniently located for that purpose, may unite in the establishment and management of a cemetery, by the purchase or appropriation of land therefor not exceeding one hundred acres, to be paid for as provided by section 759.30 of the Revised Code.
Effective Date: 10-01-1953 .
Excerpt:
"...the tax levy has been in place for more than two decades. ...it would generate $320,000 per year based on the property taxes of Worthington, Sharon Township and the village of Riverlea.
...the tax levy would fund the care and maintenance of the grounds for Walnut Grove Cemetery, 5561 Milton Ave. in Worthington, and development for Flint Cemetery, 8187 Flint Road in Columbus."